Obituary Examples for a Colleague
Short and longer obituary samples helping you write with warmth and clarity.
Writing an obituary for a colleague offers a chance to reflect on their character, dedication, and the difference they made in your workplace and beyond. Whether you worked closely for years or shared meaningful moments in a team, these examples can help you express gratitude and respect.
Each sample below includes both short and longer versions to guide you in honouring their memory with sincerity, professionalism, and warmth.
Short Obituary Examples for a Colleague
These short obituary samples for a colleague are simple, clear, and heartfelt — ideal for printed notices, funeral programs, or online announcements.
💬 If you’d like a little more step-by-step help before exploring the samples, our guide on how to write an obituary offers practical advice and structure to help you begin.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 1 – Traditional and Factual
James “Jim” Roberts, aged 59, passed away peacefully on 10 February 2024.
Jim was a valued colleague and friend, known for his professionalism, humour, and kind nature. He worked in our logistics department for more than 20 years and mentored many members of the team.
A service of remembrance will be held at St Mary’s Church on 17 February 2024 at 11 a.m. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to the British Heart Foundation.
Jim’s dedication, positivity, and friendship will be remembered by all who worked with him.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 2 – Personal and Warm
Our dear colleague and friend, Emma “Em” Hughes, passed away on 6 May 2024, aged 48.
Emma brought warmth, laughter, and creativity to everything she did.
She was always the first to help, listen, or lift the mood in the office.
A celebration of Emma’s life will be held at Oakwood Chapel on 13 May 2024 at noon. Please wear something bright in her memory.
Her kindness, professionalism, and spirit will never be forgotten by those who had the privilege to work with her.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 3 – Faith-Based and Uplifting
Blessing Adeyemi, aged 51, went home to be with the Lord on 16 March 2024.
Blessing was not only a dedicated colleague but also a source of encouragement to everyone she met. Her faith and positivity lifted our spirits daily.
A home-going service will be held at Grace Chapel on 23 March 2024 at 10 a.m.
Her strength, compassion, and faith will continue to inspire our team.
🕊️ Short Obituary Example 4 – Modern and Reflective
Hannah Clarke, aged 43, passed away peacefully on 21 June 2024.
Hannah was a talented and caring team member who always went the extra mile. She loved coffee breaks, shared laughter, and working collaboratively with colleagues.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 28 June 2024 at 3 p.m.
Her professionalism, friendship, and warmth will be missed by everyone at the company.
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Longer Obituary Examples for a Colleague
These longer obituary samples for a colleague offer more space to share their story — capturing their character, milestones, and the inspiration they brought to those around them.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 1 – Traditional Full Version
Michael “Mike” Carter, aged 58, passed away peacefully on 7 January 2024, surrounded by family.
Mike was a respected colleague and friend who brought dedication and humour to his work every day.
For over three decades, he worked in our operations team, leading with care, fairness, and quiet determination.
He loved golf, family time, and helping others succeed — values that shaped both his work and personal life.
A service of remembrance will take place at St Peter’s Church on 14 January 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Rosewood Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Donations may be made to Cancer Research UK.
Mike’s legacy of kindness, integrity, and mentorship will remain an inspiration to us all.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 2 – Heartfelt and Family Focussed
Our much-loved colleague and friend, Laura “Lau” Jenkins, passed away on 10 April 2024, aged 46.
Laura was the heart of our team — encouraging, funny, and endlessly supportive.
She joined the company in 2008 and quickly became known for her positivity and care for others.
She loved baking for team birthdays and making everyone feel valued.
A celebration of Laura’s life will be held at Rosewood Chapel on 17 April 2024 at noon. Colleagues, friends, and family are welcome to attend and share memories of her laughter and kindness.
Laura’s warmth, professionalism, and friendship left a mark on everyone she worked with.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 3 – Faith and Community Inspired
Joseph “Joe” Okoro, aged 49, went to be with the Lord on 17 September 2024.
A trusted colleague, mentor, and friend, Joe worked with dedication and faith, always ready with a word of encouragement or a helping hand.
He led by example — calm in challenge, generous in spirit, and deeply respected by his team and clients alike.
He loved gospel music, fellowship, laughter, and the joy of bringing people together.
A home-going service will be held at New Life Church on 24 September 2024 at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Greenfield.
Joe’s humility, faith, and strength will remain in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to work alongside him.
🕊️ Longer Obituary Example 4 – Reflective Life Story
Isabella “Izzy” Turner, aged 44, passed away peacefully on 2 December 2024.
Izzy was a colleague who became a true friend to many. She joined the team in 2015 and was known for her creativity, dedication, and sense of humour.
Outside of work, she loved travelling, photography, and spending time with friends and family.
A memorial service will be held at Meadow Hall on 9 December 2024 at 2 p.m. Family, friends, and colleagues are invited to share stories celebrating her life and achievements.
Izzy’s warmth, insight, and friendship made a lasting impact on our workplace and our hearts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an obituary for a colleague?
Include their full name, role, and years of service, along with a few words about their character, achievements, and the impact they had on their team and workplace.
Who should write an obituary for a colleague?
It’s often written by a manager, team representative, or close coworker who knew them well. Collaborating with family ensures accuracy and respect for personal details.
How long should an obituary for a colleague be?
Printed tributes are often 80–120 words, while online or company memorials can range from 150–300 words. Choose a length that reflects their contributions and personality.
Can we publish an obituary on behalf of the workplace?
Yes — many organisations publish a formal notice or message of condolence, often including the company logo, their role, and words from colleagues or leadership.
Can I use these obituary examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or adapt them with your colleague’s name, role, and unique qualities. Adding personal notes from coworkers can make it even more meaningful.
Where can a colleague’s obituary be shared?
It can be shared in a company announcement, internal newsletter, LinkedIn post, or printed for a memorial event. Always coordinate with the family first before publication.
How can I make an obituary sound respectful yet personal?
Balance professionalism with warmth — mention achievements, but also the kindness or humour that made them special at work. Write as if speaking on behalf of the team.
🕯️ When You’re Ready to Say More, We Can Help
After the obituary comes a harder task — finding the right words to say goodbye at a service.
We can shape a first draft from your memories, ready for you to personalise — or offer gentle guidance on what you’ve already written, so your tribute feels true to you.
Giving you space to grieve, be with loved ones, and focus on arrangements.